Hello to all the seekers of calm and tranquility! Today, we are going to explore why surfing can be the best choice for combating stress, offering a series of benefits that anxiolytics cannot provide. Ready to discover how the waves can be your best ally against stress? Let’s go!
Stress in Our Daily Life
To give you some context, according to recent studies, 80% of us have experienced significant levels of stress in the past year. A rather high figure, isn’t it? In this scenario, surfing and the connection with the sea emerge as a powerful and natural option to find the calm we need.
Anxiolytics: The Pharmaceutical ‘Pause Button’
While anxiolytics are a tool used by many, it’s important to consider that over 15 million doses were prescribed in our country in the last year. This leads us to wonder if there are more natural and healthier options to address stress.
Before we continue, we want to make it clear that in this post, we suggest a very healthy and natural way to combat stress and anxiety. But if you suffer from either of them severely, you should seek help from a professional who will determine if the use of anxiolytics is necessary. If they recommend them to you and you’re unsure about taking them, consult with other healthcare professionals. This article has been written by gathering information, but it has not been written by healthcare professionals, and we also do not know your specific case.
Surf: Ocean Therapy
Surfing is not just a sport; it’s a complete therapy. It connects us with the sea and nature in a profound way, allowing us to experience a sense of calm and serenity. According to a study from the University of California, contact with nature significantly reduces cortisol levels, the stress hormone.
Connection with Oneself
As we glide over the waves, we enter a state of flow where we are completely focused on the present. This allows us to disconnect from daily worries and connect with ourselves in a unique way. According to a survey by the Professional Surfers Association, 70% of surfers claim to feel a sense of inner peace after a surf session.
Surfing is not just a sport; it’s a full-body workout!
From paddling to standing up and maintaining balance, every movement works your muscles to the max. As it is well known, the benefits of sports are amazing:
- Improved strength and endurance: Paddling forcefully against the waves and moments of calm between sets strengthen your muscles, enhance your endurance, and help you gain muscle mass.
- Rising cardiovascular health: Surfing combines intense bursts with pauses, similar to the popular HIIT workouts. This raises your heart rate, improving your cardiovascular health and lowering blood pressure.
- Total relaxation: We all know that sports are an excellent ally in the fight against stress and anxiety. If we add to this being in the sea, in total connection with nature, plus the sense of freedom that surfing offers, and the fact that it’s a sport that forces you to focus on the waves, currents, and your movements, we probably have one of the best sports to combat stress and anxiety.
Social Benefits of Surfing with Friends
Surfing is even more fun when shared with friends. It’s not only an exciting activity but also strengthens social bonds and promotes fun and camaraderie. According to a study from Harvard University, positive social interaction is directly related to stress reduction.
The Winning Solution: Surfing + Surf Professionals
If you feel inclined to choose surfing as your ally against stress, we encourage you to find your ideal surf class or surf camp on SurfySpot. There, with the guidance of professionals, you can learn to surf safely and fully enjoy the experience. Moreover, what better way to do it than with friends or as a couple? Fun is guaranteed!
So, now you know, dear friend in search of calm, surfing can be your best ally against stress. With a little practice and the right guidance, you’ll be riding the waves of serenity in no time. See you in the water! 🌊🤙
Sources :
- Annual Stress Study, Stress Research Institute, 2023.
- Report on Anxiolytic Prescriptions in the Last Year, Ministry of Health, 2023.
- Survey on the Mental Health Benefits of Surfing, Association of Professional Surfers, 2022.
- “The Power of Nature: Ecotherapy and Well-being”, University of California, 2019.
- “Social Interaction and Stress Reduction”, Harvard University, 2020.
